Welcome to the new Futuro Perfecto's blog section, where we highlight the incredible team members working diligently to support the innovation and growth of our clients. These interviews will be a kick off a series of questions to get to know the people behind our operations and explore their perspectives on the European funding sector.
Paula Alonso, our EU Funding Coordinator has a background in Law, Business, and International Relations, has worked in consulting and the pharmaceutical industry across Europe. Now, as EU Funding Coordinator at Futuro Perfecto, she helps startups secure EU funding, driven by her passion for supporting innovation and impactful projects.
1. Can you tell us a bit about your professional journey and how you came to work at Futuro Perfecto?I have a background in Law and Business. I worked for a while in consulting in Barcelona, then moved to Switzerland to work for a pharmaceutical company. After that, I decided to come back to Spain to study for a Master's in International Relations at IE. After completing my studies, the opportunity to work at Futuro Perfecto came up.
2. What attracted you to the field of R&D project funding and innovation?
The dynamism of the field attracted me, along with the opportunity to meet entrepreneurs from different fields and backgrounds. I enjoy being able to support the development of impactful projects.
3. What skills do you consider essential for your role at Futuro Perfecto?
Resilience, patience, and a methodological approach are key skills for my role.
4. Tell us about your role, in one sentence, what do you do?
I identify startups and projects that could be eligible for EU Funding programs, working together with the EU Funding team.
5. What’s your favorite or most fulfilling thing about your role?
The most fulfilling part is finishing the process by bringing new clients on board. It’s rewarding to take them from the initial contact or meeting to the point where they trust us and are willing to work with us long-term, especially in something as important as their funding and the future of their company.
6. How do you see the future of European funding programs like Horizon Europe and H2020?
I hope that funding from the EU Commission remains strong and that their budget increases, as it’s essential for creating an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship within the EU. It’s also important to follow up with the companies that receive funding, as they are promising and could change the future of the EU, becoming strategic players in innovation. We need to follow the steps of the US ecosystem, where more funding is available and they lead the way in innovation.
7. What are the unique challenges that Deep Tech startups face when seeking funding?
Early-stage companies often have limited financial capacity, and it can sometimes be difficult to secure funding from private investors, as there’s some hesitation within the EU investment ecosystem to invest in disruptive projects with no clear path to success. In terms of public funding, the long processes can be challenging for startups, as they take up time and resources. Additionally, with so many funding opportunities available, companies often need guidance and contacts to partner in consortiums, and it usually takes at least six months to see any money. Many startups are also unfamiliar with the format and the specific information required to present their projects in these programs.
8. What do you think sets Futuro Perfecto apart from other consultancies in the same field?
We are a young company with a highly skilled team. We are motivated, ambitious, and driven to grow and become the best in our field.
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